Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Tupelo POW honored by local VFW

TUPELO, Miss. - Retired Air Force Col. Carlyle “Smitty” Harris, a former Vietnam prisoner of war, was honored with the dedication of a lounge room in his name at the American Legion Post in Tupelo on Sept. 18. He was honored for his exceptional service during the war and his time as a POW for 2,781 days. To make the room dedication ceremony more memorable, Harris’ family and friends surprised Harris and held the ceremony on POW/MIA Recognition Day. Shortly after, Harris and his family and friends - including retired Lt. Col. Richard “Sonic” Johnson, a former Columbus Air Force Base member - were led to the room for him to cut the ribbon and officially open the room. The room was filled with memorabilia of Harris’ time in service, including service medals, official portraits and his own book titled “Tap Code” that was released in November of 2019. Harris then led guests through the room explaining what each of the pieces were and what they meant. (Source: Columbus AFB 09/29/20) https://www.columbus.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2364540/former-vietnam-pow-surprised-with-a-room-dedication/

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